Best SUVs of 2024 and 2025
There are plenty of choices in today's popular SUV segment. Here are our picks from the wide range of models available now.
If you're a new car buyer, chances are an SUV is on your shopping list. And if that's the case, you're spoiled for choice. Each year, SUVs are becoming more and more popular, and to cover every nook and cranny of consumer interest, from small baskets to big boxes, automakers continue to diversify the range of SUVs and crossovers in their lineup. The automotive landscape includes models that cater to the frugal-minded among us, the most performance-focused buyers, and every consumer in between. As a result, the competition is forcing changes to these types of vehicles. The dull SUVs of yesterday still exist, but there are also a number of delightfully engaging alternatives as well, not to mention some seriously off-road capable options.
Finding the best SUV in a field this large is a lot to chew through. We've split the more than 200 new crossovers and SUVs for sale today across more than a dozen segments to find the ones that dare to be good. Our editors have put every SUV sold today through our comprehensive testing regimen to filter out the pretenders. We've driven them all to decide which ones deserve a spot on our 2024 Editor's Choice list, not to mention naming a few of the very best of these vehicles to our 10Best Trucks and SUVs of 2024.
Here are the best SUVs for other model years: 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020
Subcompact: Buick Envista
Coupe-like SUVs are all the rage and Buick, builder of staid semi-luxurious crossovers, is looking to get in on the action with the 2024 Envista. Designed to take on the likes of the Chevrolet Trax, the Mazda CX-30, and the Volkswagen Taos, the Envista does so with more slicked-back styling. If you're looking for sporty handling or eye-blurring acceleration, we'd encourage you to move along. Under the Envista's hood is a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine that makes just 136 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission. This crossover is meant to crawl mall parking lots, not boulders, and as such, front-wheel drive is the only arrangement offered. What's most impressive about the Envista is its starting price of less than $25,000, which includes such niceties as an 8.0-inch digital gauge display, automatic high-beam headlamps, lane-keeping assist, and an 11.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Envista takes up residence at the entry-level end of the Buick lineup under the Encore GX and the Envision SUVs.
Subcompact: Chevrolet Trax
The new Chevy Trax has gained space and size and delivers even better value than before. Its dazzling redesign and enhanced safety features sweeten a once dreary subcompact. Every Trax is front-wheel drive and powered by a 137-hp turbocharged three-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission. It borrows that powertrain from the smaller Trailblazer; its style inspiration comes from the mid-size Blazer. The new-gen Trax has more rear legroom and cargo space than before, and its starting price is—unusually—lower than the model it replaces. One of the most affordable crossovers sold today, behind the subcompact Kia Soul and Hyundai Venue, the Trax is a wise choice for those looking to stretch the most out of their new car purchase.
Subcompact: Hyundai Kona
The boxy 2024 Hyundai Kona looks more rugged than it is, as this subcompact soft-roader is made for the urban jungle—not muddy two-tracks. Like the previous generation, the new Kona is powered by one of two gas-fed four-cylinder engines. A 147-hp 2.0-liter is standard, but a more powerful 190-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter is optional. A battery-electric Kona is also offered. The more futuristic styling of the Kona extends to the interior, which is designed around two 12.3-inch displays on the dashboard. The 2024 Kona is more spacious than the last-generation model too, thanks in large part to a longer wheelbase and slimmer front seat backs that free up more space for rear-seat riders.
Subcompact: Kia Niro
In addition to a city-friendly size and an affordable starting price, the 2024 Kia Niro boasts fashionable styling that's as eye-catching as it is tasteful. The entry-level Niro is powered by a 139-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, which is admittedly rather poky, but if you want more power, there's a plug-in-hybrid version with 180 ponies and a 33-mile estimated battery-electric driving range. Inside, the Niro's contemporary image continues, with a cabin that's equally as chic as the exterior. Kia uses sustainable materials where possible, including the upholstery and the headliner, the latter of which incorporates eucalyptus leaves. Road manners are agreeable—if somewhat forgettable—but the Niro feels right at home in urban environments. If you're looking to go all-electric, Kia also sells the Niro EV.
Subcompact: Mazda CX-30
Driving verve ranks high on our list of priorities and the 2024 Mazda CX-30 is a small SUV that easily satisfies our desire for fun-to-drive transportation. The CX-30 is based on the Mazda 3 compact car, which explains its athleticism and its class-above cabin furnishings—both of which set it apart from rivals such as the Subaru Crosstrek and the Volkswagen Taos. With the entry-level 2.5-liter four-cylinder, the CX-30 can feel a bit sluggish, but if you're so inclined, Mazda offers a more powerful—and more expensive—250-hp turbocharged version. All-wheel drive is standard with either engine; both come with a six-speed automatic transmission. The higher-end trims offer near-luxury accommodations inside, which makes the CX-30 a more luxurious option in the subcompact crossover segment. You could even consider it as a cheaper alternative to premium-branded models such as the Audi Q3 or the BMW X1.
Subcompact: Subaru Crosstrek
It has never been a rock-crawling off-roader, but the Subaru Crosstrek has long been an affordable, rugged, and fuel-efficient package designed to go slightly farther off the pavement than an Impreza hatchback. That won't change as the Crosstrek enters its next generation for the 2024 model year. In true Subaru fashion, the Crosstrek's design evolves upon that of its predecessor. The same is true of its interior, which remains as spacious and practical as the 2023 model. Engine options carry over unchanged from 2023, with a 152-hp 2.0-liter flat-four serving as the base engine and a 182-hp 2.5-liter flat-four optionally available. As is the Subaru way, all-wheel drive is standard on all models. Alas, last year's manual transmission is no more, and all 2024 Crosstreks rely on a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Despite this, the new Crosstrek improves notably over the prior generation model, with Subaru redesigning the seats for additional comfort and adding more sound-deadening material to the cabin to better keep outside noise from entering the interior.
Subcompact: Volkswagen Taos
Volkswagen's Taos mini-SUV blends the best of the Golf and Tiguan into one delightful package. All Taos models come with a 158-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder. Predictably, acceleration isn't groundbreaking, but its road manners are refined, and its fuel efficiency is admirable. A handsome exterior design wraps around a practical, businesslike cabin with two spacious rows of seats and an upright seating position that SUV shoppers will appreciate. The Taos's low starting price makes it an attractive option among small crossovers, but while rivals such as the Chevrolet Trailblazer and the Kia Seltos top out at just over $30,000, the Taos can stretch your budget up past the $35,000 mark. Its higher trims add many features, but that puts the Taos in contention with larger SUVs, including its bigger brother, the Tiguan.
Subcompact Luxury: BMW X1
Although it sits at the bottom of BMW's SUV lineup, there's nothing entry-level about the 2024 X1. Its lithe handling and practical interior almost make the X1 a suitable replacement for the 3-series station wagon that's regrettably absent from BMW's U.S. product portfolio. The standard powertrain is a 241-hp turbo four but the racier M35i trim comes with a 312-hp variant; both come standard with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic transmission. The cabin features both a modern design and modern tech, including BMW's latest iDrive 9 infotainment system, a curved-glass display, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There are two rows of seats which are both spacious for the small SUV class, but the Mercedes-Benz GLB-class is roomier still and offers an optional third row of seats. What the Benz doesn't have, however, is the BMW's driving verve.
Subcompact Luxury: Volvo XC40
For decades, Volvo produced cars that were just as plain and boxy as they were safe-with-a-capital-“S.” Modern Volvo continues to delight us with models that are even safer, but with a design that's much more elegant and expressive. That includes the spunky entry-level XC40 SUV, which blends excellent protection with an upscale ambiance and a youthful character. The cabin offers drivers a higher seating position than what's found in rivals such as the BMW X1 and the Mercedes-Benz GLA-class. Even the least expensive variant features an inviting and nicely trimmed interior, and the upper trims look thoroughly premium. Every XC40 is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive that scoots along nicely, and Volvo hasn’t skimped on standard safety and assistance technology. An electric version, dubbed the XC40 Recharge, is also available if you're looking for an eco-friendlier option.
Compact: Ford Bronco Sport
The 2024 Ford Bronco Sport can't go places the bigger Bronco can, but the baby version still has the capabilities and styling to give people a taste of the off-roader lifestyle. While it won't be conquering the Rubicon Trail anytime soon, the Bronco Sport can venture farther off the beaten path than most other compact SUVs. When it comes to legit off-road chops, the range-topping Badlands alone has a punchy 245-hp turbo four and a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system that put it in exclusive company with the trail-rated Jeep Cherokee. Of course, the rest of the Bronco Sport lineup has lots to offer too, including a practical interior layout and myriad thoughtful features. Along with all-wheel drive, a 181-hp turbocharged three-cylinder engine is standard, and this setup returned an impressive 33 mpg highway in our real-world fuel economy test. Our main gripes with the 2024 Bronco Sport include some cheap-looking cabin materials and a tight back seat. Otherwise, it’s a more accessible alternative to the bigger Bronco.
Compact: Honda CR-V
The latest CR-V was a hit as soon as it debuted, immediately earning a 10Best Trucks and SUVs trophy. The CR-V offers reliably good performance, with plenty of usable space, friendly driving dynamics, front- or all-wheel drive, a 190-hp turbocharged engine, and an optional 204-hp hybrid version. That hybrid powertrain delivers a stellar 40 mpg combined. Even in base form, the CR-V shines with a deep layer of modern tech and safety features that don’t hog the spotlight deservedly occupied by its superb chassis. The CR-V is our favorite in the highly popular compact SUV segment, even amid stiff competition from the Mazda CX-50, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Kia Sportage.
Compact: Mazda CX-5
Taking a look back at the Mazda CX-5's history is a good way to understand where it stands today. It's got as many Car and Driver 10Best awards as it does tires, but after seven years as one of our favorite SUVs, the CX-5 is due for a rejuvenation. It's still a better driver and far more luxurious than the train of competitors behind it, though. Under the hood is a 187-hp inline-four engine. All-wheel drive is standard. The optional 256-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter is the powertrain to get, but thankfully Mazda has decided against the popular CVT and instead uses a traditional six-speed automatic transmission, which sweetens the CX-5 driving experience. If space is a priority, then we'd recommend looking at Mazda's slightly larger CX-50.
Compact: Mazda CX-50
Mazda is quickly transitioning its lineup to SUVs but the 2024 CX-50 is proof that there's still plenty of zoom-zoom left in the tank. This compact SUV sports a ruggedly handsome look and a near-luxury interior but doesn't abandon the agile handling and fun-to-drive nature the brand is known for. A 187-hp four-cylinder is standard, and all models come with all-wheel drive but things get more fun when the optional 256-hp turbocharged four is under the hood. The CX-50's size puts it in contention with winning entries such as the Honda CR-V and the Volkswagen Tiguan, not to mention a rival from within its own showroom—the Mazda CX-5. But the CX-50 trades on its expert blend of style and grace to edge its way toward the top of the compact SUV class.
Compact: Volkswagen Tiguan
It’s hard to stand out in a crowd, but the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan strives to escape the genericism of the compact crossover segment with reserved but tasteful sheetmetal, sharp handling, and a European spirit. Living directly below the Atlas in VW’s U.S. lineup, the Tiguan prioritizes a holistic balance over stylistic gimmickry or extraordinary performance. A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and an eight-speed automatic serve as the sole powertrain, but what this combo lacks in performance, it makes up for with parsimonious fuel economy and satisfying operation. The cabin offers decent space for people and cargo, while the styling remains reserved and purposeful and the seats firm but comfortable. A third row of seats is available, but it’s tight and for small children or occasional use only; the Mitsubishi Outlander is the only other model in the segment with an available third row, but it has even less legroom. While the Tiguan's feature content is class-competitive, its crisp handling and overall well-rounded personality make for an appealing and enjoyable driving experience.
Compact Luxury: BMW X3
Are compact luxury crossovers the new sports sedans? Judging by the way the 2024 BMW X3 handles corners, we're tempted to answer affirmatively. Based on the venerable 3-series four-door, the X3 blends the same refined nature and engaging handling with a practical body style capable of hauling more cargo. Entry-level models come with a 248-hp turbocharged four-cylinder but the sportier M40i gets a 382-hp turbo inline-six. Both provide effortless power, but the inline-six delights with its smooth-running nature and added muscle. The X3's design is just premium enough to be recognized as a luxury SUV without resorting to garish adornments. Its interior is well-matched to its exterior styling, with an orderly look and smartly integrated technology. Those seeking more designer duds may find rivals such as the Genesis GV70 or the Volvo XC60 more to their liking. But the X3's focus on driving verve is something we can get behind, even with its more sober appearance.
Compact Luxury: Genesis GV70
Although it starts at a lower price than many of its competitors, there's nothing second-rate about the 2024 Genesis GV70. This compact SUV does luxury better than the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 and also delivers well-balanced road manners—with a smoother ride than the Mercedes GLC-class and the Volvo XC60. While those rivals have the Genesis beat when it comes to name recognition, the GV70 is impressively deluxe, with a chic design and a full roster of convenience and technology features. A turbocharged four-cylinder is standard, but a more powerful twin-turbo V-6 is optional; both offer plenty of giddyap and come with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. We had a V-6-powered GV70 for a long-term test in which we finished 40,000 miles with almost nothing but praise for it.
Compact Luxury: Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
While it shares its underpinnings with the C-class sedan, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC-class SUV serves a slightly different type of driver. The GLC300 is still fairly athletic, but if you're someone who values maximum driving fun, the C-class—or one of the AMG-tuned GLCs—is a better choice. What the GLC does best is cradle its occupants in a cabin outfitted with luxury features and plenty of tech, including an infotainment system with an 11.9-inch screen that rises upward from the center console in easy reach of the driver's right hand. All GLC300s are powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower; a nine-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive are standard, but all-wheel drive is available as an option. The cargo bay behind the rear seats is more voluminous than what you'll get in the C-class, but the same could be said of many of the GLC's rivals, including the BMW X3, the Jaguar F-Pace, and the Volvo XC60.
Compact Luxury: Porsche Macan
More than a few compact luxury SUVs are dull little things but the Porsche Macan is one of only a handful that prove daring and exciting to drive. Despite its rather shed-like shape, the Macan embodies plenty of Porsche sports-car characteristics. The base Macan comes with a 261-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine that generates a respectable amount of zip. Macan S gets a 375-hp twin-turbo V-6 that delivers a significant leap in performance, making it the second mightiest of the Macan line before deferring to the more furious 434-hp Macan GTS. The Macan’s steering and ride make carving through challenging twisty roads as easy as slicing soft butter, thanks to a chassis designed for performance over cargo space. It’s unmatched in terms of driving feel.
Compact Luxury: Volvo XC60
Like a nice pair of shoes or a perfect pair of jeans, the 2024 Volvo XC60 brings together practical design with handsome styling to create a unique option in the compact luxury SUV class. The XC60 pairs an elegant exterior with an upscale interior and a distinctively Scandinavian take on luxury. Volvo offers two four-cylinder engine options for the XC60—the 247-hp B5 and the 455-hp T8 plug-in hybrid. The Volvo takes corners well and feels connected to the road, even if rivals such as the Porsche Macan infuse more athleticism into their road manners. Technology sits at the forefront of the XC60, and even though we don't love the Google-based infotainment system, it works well enough. Competitors like the BMW X3 and Mercedes GLC-class offer more space for cargo, but we think most customers will find it practical enough.
Compact Performance: Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio is an Italian dreamboat with a 505-hp twin-turbo V-6 for a heartbeat. It delivers its power via all-wheel drive and uses an eight-speed automatic that handles shift work as adamantly as factory workers in Bologna. The QF is the regular Stelvio unleashed. It feels supremely balanced under intense cornering and, when it comes to the open road, is quicker to 60 mph than the rear-drive Giulia Quadrifoglio sedan thanks to its four powered wheels. Though its driving instincts scream sports car, on the SUV side of things passenger and cargo space all take a figurative back seat to its exciting persona. Its mighty performance can't escape Alfa Romeo's reputation for spotty reliability, though—something we experienced firsthand in a long-term test of a Giulia Quadrifoglio sedan.
Yes, he's still working on the 1986 Nissan 300ZX Turbo project car he started in high school, and no, it’s not for sale yet. Austin Irwin was born and raised in Michigan, and, despite getting shelled by hockey pucks during a not-so-successful goaltending career through high school and college, still has all of his teeth. He loves cars from the 1980s and Bleu, his Great Pyrenees, and is an active member of the Buffalo Wild Wings community. When Austin isn’t working on his own cars, he’s likely on the side of the highway helping someone else fix theirs.
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